On a recent day trip through the Waipara wine country, we dropped in at the Fossil Point cafe. Unless you know what a great place this is to stop at, most travellers on state highway 1 would whizz past this cafe and gallery, at the turnoff to Greta Valley. The cafe has lovely homemade, top quality food. There is indoor seating but on a sunny day the best place is to sit and relax in the outdoor area.

Another good reason to visit is to look at the local art for sale. On this visit we fell for a fascinating vase to put in our reception here at Tussock Peak Motor Lodge. It is quite unusual to say the least.

  

The artist, Kim Henderson, told us that it was inspired by the kelp seen at the beach in Gore Bay nearby (another great place to visit on a day trip from Hanmer Springs).

Kelp on the beach at Gore Bay